VocabDictionary

incident

/ˈɪn.sɪ.dənt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An individual occurrence or event, often one that is unpleasant, unusual, or potentially disruptive.

Example Sentences:
  • The police were called to investigate a minor incident involving a broken window.
  • There was an international incident after the diplomat's controversial remarks.
2.adjective

Liable to happen or naturally appertaining to a particular situation or event.

Example Sentences:
  • The costs incident to the purchase of a new home can be quite high.
  • There are many risks incident to mountain climbing.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “incident”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'incidere' (to fall upon, happen), formed from 'in-' (into/upon) and 'cadere' (to fall). Originally used in the 15th century to describe something that happens as a minor or subordinate event, it evolved to refer to any distinct occurrence or event, often one that is unpleasant or noteworthy.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of an 'in-cider-nt': A clumsy person spilled their 'in cider' at the party, which caused quite an incident.

Frequently Asked Questions About “incident

1. What is the meaning of “incident” in English?

In English, incident (noun) is defined as: “An individual occurrence or event, often one that is unpleasant, unusual, or potentially disruptive.”.

2. How do you use “incident” in a sentence?

The police were called to investigate a minor incident involving a broken window.

3. What are English synonyms of “incident”?

Common synonyms include:occurrence,event,episode,happening,affair

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “incident”?

Derived from the Latin 'incidere' (to fall upon, happen), formed from 'in-' (into/upon) and 'cadere' (to fall). Originally used in the 15th century to describe something that happens as a minor or subordinate event, it evolved to refer to any distinct occurrence or event, often one that is unpleasant or noteworthy.